Remus Highest Rye Straight Bourbon

This is a delightful offering for rye enthusiasts. My preference shifted from bourbon to rye several years ago, primarily for its spicier, more savory profile. Rye also requires less aging time to mellow compared to corn, and the current bourbon market is quite challenging. This is noteworthy as one of the first bourbons I've encountered that is marketed and distributed with a minimum corn content, irrespective of the other grains. The inclusion of malted rye, likely as a substitute for barley in the distillation process, is appreciated. Aged for 6 years, it strikes a fine balance: not so long that the rye loses its characteristic spiciness, but sufficiently aged to mellow and sweeten the more robust corn notes. At 109 proof, it suggests a good bottle with a pleasant body and a fair price, though my usual store charges $10 over MSRP. The color is as expected, perhaps a bit darker for only 6 years of aging. The deep chestnut brown hue and oily swirls in the glass hint at the possibility of smaller barrel volumes, which could also explain the enhanced color. The rye is dominant on the nose, but not exclusive, with expected notes of cinnamon and grass mingling with saltines, toffee, and a significant amount of vanilla. The proof is well-integrated, providing warmth without overwhelming the senses. The body initially feels a bit thin but quickly warms up. The flavors lean sweet before becoming spicy, with caramel sauce notes complemented by so much vanilla that a blind tasting might not suggest it's unflavored. A balanced spiciness follows, stemming from both the rye and the higher proof, making it difficult to pinpoint its exact source. Subtle floral and dry notes emerge before the finish brings back the sweetness, yet maintains balance with the other lingering flavors. This bourbon offers a unique flavor profile that is hard to match within the constraints of bourbon production, differing from my expectations for a 'highest rye' expression. While I previously associated George Remus with MGP, and it might still be the case with Ross & Squibb connections, this is an enjoyable bottle at MSRP. Its wider availability from a major brand is a positive development. I would be interested to see this same mash bill with a longer aging period, as I believe these proportions would develop even more refined characteristics with extended barrel time. However, such a product would likely be unattainable in the current market, so I recommend enjoying this expression as it is when you find it.

This is an excellent bourbon for enjoying on a warm summer evening, perhaps with nearby floral scents like jasmine or lilac. It bears a resemblance to Blanton's Gold Edition but costs half as much. I will purchase it again. Nose: Walnut notes, maraschino cherries, rich and deep sweetness, apple or calvados-like qualities, a dusty aroma, vanilla, and sun-ripened wild strawberries and figs. Palate: Immediately sweet with a sour mash sensation and forward spice. Flavors of caramel candy and candied pecans, with a salty caramel undertone. Finish: Hints of char, a slight rye spiciness, roasted corn, and a drying sensation on the cheeks from the alcohol rather than tannins. It dissipates quite quickly, leaving a lingering taste of Virginia pipe tobacco. With water: Nose: Peanut notes, more prominent vanilla, and a rum barrel character. Palate: Sweeter, with more caramel candy, increased fruitiness, char, and a touch of rye bitterness. Finish: The char moves forward and returns to the soft palate. More oak is present. The pipe tobacco notes evolve into a mild vanilla-flavored cigarillo.

Day 21 This was quite interesting. Given the amount of corn and rye, I anticipated those grains would be dominant. Instead, there was a wealth of autumnal notes like vanilla, cinnamon, caramel, and maple. Leather and grain appeared closer to the finish. To be clear, all these observations came from patiently working through the heat. In retrospect, adding water would have been wise. However, I wasn't motivated to move at the time. For those more sensitive to higher proofs, I recommend adding water or an ice cube to allow it to open up.

A robust, High Rye Straight Bourbon Whiskey from Ross & Squibb Distillery. The mash bill consists of 51% corn, 39% rye, and 10% malted rye. It was aged for 6 years in American white oak barrels and bottled at 54.5% ABV. It presents an aromatic opening with hints of grains, wood, stewed and candied fruits, herbs, and spices. The palate is elegant and slightly creamy, revealing notes of vanilla, maple, fig, raisin, and mint, leading to a well-rounded, medium-length finish with flavors of toasted oak, barrel char, caramel, cinnamon, nutmeg, and leather.

Right from the pour, there's an aroma that's nearly like cinnamon, perhaps with a faint malty smell as well. Upon the initial taste, a multitude of flavors explode on the tongue. A strong spiciness persists, but in a pleasing manner. The conclusion lingers a bit longer than desired. All things considered, it's surprisingly enjoyable. The rye is prominent and dominates, but in a good way.

Smell: Notes of leather, candy, caramel, and sweet grass. Taste: The scent carries to the palate, joined by added spice and corn, concluding with dry wood. It has a pleasant warmth when sipped. The Remus Straight Bourbon at 94 proof was just acceptable. I wouldn't repurchase it for $40. This, however, was a wonderful bourbon I would buy again for $50.